Yarn Project Calculator
Never run out of yarn mid-project again with precise yardage calculations
Pro Tip: Always buy one extra skein for gauge swatches and unexpected pattern adjustments.
Project Information
Original Yarn
Yarn Substitution
Yarn Requirements
For Original Yarn:
Total Yardage Needed:
Total Grams Needed:
Skeins Required:
0 yards
0 grams
0 skeins
Notes: Consider dye lot when purchasing multiple skeins
Yarn Estimation Guidelines
Yardage by Project Type
- Adult Sweater: 1200-1800yd (worsted)
- Scarf (60"): 500-800yd (DK)
- Beanie: 150-250yd (worsted)
- Socks (pair): 300-400yd (fingering)
- Baby Blanket: 900-1200yd (worsted)
Stitch Pattern Multipliers
- Garter: 1.1x stockinette
- Ribbing: 0.9x stockinette
- Cables: 1.3-1.5x stockinette
- Lace: 0.7-0.9x stockinette
- Colorwork: 1.2-1.4x stockinette
"Our calculator accounts for an automatic 15% buffer, but complex patterns or modified designs may require up to 25% extra yarn."
Yarn Weight Characteristics
Fingering (1)
~400yd/100g. Ideal for lightweight garments and socks. Produces 7-8 stitches/inch. Substitutes: Use 1.25x DK or 0.8x Sport weight. Requires ~30% more yardage than DK for same project.
DK (3)
~250yd/100g. Versatile medium weight. Produces 5-6 stitches/inch. Substitutes: Use 0.8x Worsted or 1.25x Sport weight. The balanced choice for most garments and accessories.
Worsted (4)
~200yd/100g. Classic all-purpose weight. Produces 4-5 stitches/inch. Substitutes: Use 1.25x DK or 0.75x Bulky. Provides excellent stitch definition with moderate drape.
Substitution Tip: When changing yarn weights, always swatch with adjusted needle sizes. For every weight change (e.g., DK to Worsted), adjust needle size by 0.5-1mm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are yarn calculators?
Our calculator is ~85-90% accurate for standard patterns. Complex stitch patterns, modified dimensions, or personal knitting style can affect actual usage. Always buy extra - unused skeins can usually be returned.
Can I substitute a different yarn weight?
Yes, with adjustments. Going up a weight (e.g., DK to Worsted) requires ~25% less yardage but produces a thicker fabric. Going down a weight (e.g., Worsted to DK) needs ~30% more yardage for same dimensions.
Why does my project use more yarn than calculated?
Common reasons: looser gauge than pattern, additional pattern repeats, longer length than planned, or "heavy" knitting style (some knitters consistently use more yarn than others with same gauge).
How do I calculate yardage for colorwork?
For stranded colorwork, calculate main color as 100% of base yardage plus each contrast color at 25-40% of base. For stripes, divide total yardage by color sequence (e.g., 3 colors = ~33% each).
What if my yarn has different yardage than the pattern?
Divide pattern's total yardage by your yarn's yards per skein. Example: Pattern calls for 1000yd of DK (200yd/skein) = 5 skeins. Your DK has 175yd/skein: 1000 ÷ 175 = 5.71 → Round up to 6 skeins.